How does John 12:8 emphasize prioritizing Jesus over material concerns in our lives? Setting the Scene John 12 opens with Mary of Bethany pouring costly perfume on Jesus’ feet. Judas objects, arguing the perfume could have been sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus answers, “For the poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me.” (John 12:8) What Jesus Declares • “The poor you will always have with you” – material needs will persist in a fallen world. • “You will not always have Me” – Jesus’ physical presence on earth was for a limited time, highlighting the uniqueness of that moment. Core Principle: Honor Christ Above All • Devotion to Jesus takes precedence over even the noblest material concerns. • Giving to the poor is commanded (Deuteronomy 15:11; Galatians 2:10), yet worship of Jesus claims first place. • Jesus is not dismissing charity; He is directing the order of our loves. Why This Priority Matters 1. Jesus is the supreme treasure (Philippians 3:8). 2. Our time to respond to Him is finite (Hebrews 9:27). 3. Right worship fuels right service—when Christ is first, care for people flows naturally (2 Corinthians 5:14). Balancing Worship and Works • Martha served; Mary listened at Jesus’ feet. Jesus said Mary “has chosen the good portion” (Luke 10:42), echoing John 12:8. • Seek first His kingdom, “and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). The verse promises material provision as a by-product of God-first living. Practical Takeaways • Schedule undistracted time with Christ before scheduling tasks and budgets. • Evaluate giving: is it an overflow of love for Jesus or a substitute for intimacy with Him? • Hold possessions loosely; hold Christ tightly (Colossians 3:1-2). • Let acts of mercy spring from worship, not replace it. Supporting Scriptures • Matthew 26:6-13 – parallel account reaffirming the priority. • Mark 12:41-44 – the widow’s mites show heart devotion outweighs monetary amount. • Romans 12:1 – present your bodies as living sacrifices; true worship involves the whole self. Summary John 12:8 teaches that while material needs remain, the supreme claim on our hearts is Jesus Himself. Honor Him first, and compassionate care for others will follow in its proper, Spirit-guided place. |
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